Brushing and Flossing
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial during orthodontic treatment to ensure both teeth and gums remain healthy. Regular brushing and flossing help prevent issues that could necessitate more frequent professional cleanings. Adults with a history of gum disease should also schedule visits with a periodontist.
Watch our instructional videos below on proper brace care during treatment.
Eating Tips with Braces
What can you eat with braces? Initially, stick to soft foods like soups, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and smoothies to protect your braces. Avoid tough meats, hard breads, and raw vegetables. Gradually reintroduce a wider variety of foods, but continue to avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy options that could damage your braces and prolong treatment.
Foods to Avoid
- Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
- Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice
- Sticky foods: caramels, gum
- Hard foods: nuts, candy
- Foods you have to bite into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots
Avoid chewing on hard objects like pens or fingernails to prevent damage that could extend your treatment duration.
Managing Discomfort
It’s normal to experience soreness and sensitivity in your mouth and teeth for 3 – 5 days after getting braces. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort. Your lips, cheeks, and tongue may also become irritated initially but will toughen over time. Wax is provided to alleviate any discomfort caused by braces.
Loosening of Teeth
Teeth may feel loose during treatment as they shift into their correct positions. This is a natural part of the orthodontic process and indicates that your braces are working effectively.
Loose Wire or Band
Occasionally, wires or bands may become loose. If a wire irritates your mouth, gently push it aside with the eraser end of a pencil. Use wax or wet cotton to reduce irritation until your orthodontist can repair it.
Rubber Band Wear
To ensure your orthodontic treatment is successful, it’s important to work closely with Dr. Julia Giardina. Your teeth and jaws can only move into their correct positions if you consistently wear your rubber bands or other prescribed appliances. Not following instructions or damaging appliances can prolong your treatment time, so please remember to follow their guidance closely.
Athletics Activities
If you participate in sports, especially contact sports, inform us to ensure you receive a protective mouth guard. This precaution helps safeguard your braces during physical activities.
